Whether Russia had any literature, or even a distinctive alphabet, previous to the end of the tenth century, is not known. In the year 988, Vladímir, Grand Prince of Kíeff, accepted Christianity for himself and his nation, from Byzantium, and baptized Russia wholesale. Hence his characteristic title in history, "Prince-Saint-equal-to-the-Apostles." His grandmother, Olga, had already been converted to the Greek Church late in life, and had established churches and priests in Kíeff, it is sa...

Les Miserables (translated variously from French as The Miserable Ones, The Wretched, The Poor Ones, The Wretched Poor, The Victims) (1862) is a novel by French author Victor Hugo, and among the best-known novels of the 19th century. It follows the lives and interactions of several French characters over a twenty year period in the early 19th century that includes the Napoleonic wars and subsequent decades. Excerpted from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.

Les Misérables is a French historical novel by Victor Hugo, first published in 1862, that is considered one of the greatest novels of the nineteenth century. In the English-speaking world, the novel is usually referred to by its original French title, which can be translated from the French as The Miserables, The Wretched, The Miserable Ones, The Poor Ones, The Wretched Poor, or The Victims. Beginning in 1815 and culminating in the 1832 June Rebellion in Paris, the novel f...

"A Survey of Russian Literature, with Selections" by Isabel Florence Hapgood is a comprehensive exploration of the rich tapestry of Russian literary tradition. Hapgood, a prominent translator and scholar, delves into the works of notable Russian authors, providing insightful commentary and analysis. The book serves as both an introduction for newcomers and a valuable resource for seasoned readers, highlighting the cultural and historical contexts that shaped these literary masterpieces. Th...

"Russian Rambles" by Isabel Florence Hapgood is a captivating exploration of Russia's rich culture and landscapes. Hapgood, an American translator and writer, provides readers with vivid descriptions of her travels through the vast and diverse regions of Russia. Her keen observations and engaging narrative style bring to life the unique customs, traditions, and the everyday lives of the Russian people. The book serves as both a travelogue and a cultural commentary, offering insights into t...

Les Miserables is a French historical novel by Victor Hugo, first published in 1862, that is considered one of the greatest novels of the 19th century. In the English-speaking world, the novel is usually referred to by its original French title. However, several alternatives have been used, including The Miserables, The Wretched, The Miserable Ones, The Poor Ones, The Wretched Poor, The Victims and The Dispossessed. Beginning in 1815 and culminating in the 1832 June Rebellion in Paris, the...

The Hunchback of Notre Dame (French: Notre-Dame de Paris) is an 1831 French novel written by Victor Hugo. It is set in 1482 in Paris, in and around the cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris. The book tells the story of a poor Gypsy girl (La Esmeralda) and a misshapen bell-ringer (Quasimodo) who was raised by the archdeacon (Claude Frollo). The book was written as a statement to preserve the Notre Dame cathedral and not to 'modernize' it, as Hugo was thoroughly against this. Excerpted from Wikip...

In "A Survey of Russian Literature, with Selections," Isabel Florence Hapgood presents a comprehensive exploration of the rich and diverse literary traditions of Russia, spanning from its medieval roots to the contemporary period. The book is structured to provide both analytical essays and carefully curated excerpts, embracing a literary style that is both scholarly and accessible. Hapgood navigates the intricate cultural and historical contexts that have shaped Russian literature, offeri...

In her insightful travelogue, "Russian Rambles," Isabel Florence Hapgood invites readers on an immersive journey through late 19th-century Russia. The book blends vivid descriptions of the Russian landscape, architecture, and culture with personal anecdotes that reflect both the beauty and complexity of the nation. Hapgood's literary style is characterized by richly detailed prose and an engaging narrative, making her observations resonate with both the romanticism of the era and a keen so...

So long as there shall exist, by virtue of law and custom, decrees of damnation pronounced by society, artificially creating hells amid the civilization of earth, and adding the element of human fate to divine destiny; so long as the three great problems of the century—the degradation of man through pauperism, the corruption of woman through hunger, the crippling of children through lack of light—are unsolved; so long as social asphyxia is possible in any part of the world;—in other words, an...

The anthology 'The Greatest Classics Ever Written' weaves a timeless tapestry of humanity'Äôs literary genius, offering readers an unparalleled journey through diverse cultures, epochs, and genres. Spanning from ancient wisdom to modern innovation, this collection showcases an array of literary styles including novels, poetry, philosophy, and dramatic works. Notable pieces weave intricate narratives that explore the depths of human nature, evoke poignant emotions, and ignite profound refle...

"As much a love letter to the cathedral as it is the story of two doomed lovers." —Smithsonian MagazineWritten in 1831, The Hunchback of Notre Dame by Victor Hugo is a beloved French gothic novel which centers around the wondrous Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France. Set during the reign of King Louis XI, we are introduced to the gypsy dancer Esmerelda. A beautiful girl, both inside and out, Esmerelda captures the hearts of everyone around her, i...